Endocrine profile of patients with post-tubal-ligation syndrome.

The endocrine profile of the midluteal phase was assessed in 29 patients with the post-tubal-ligation syndrome, consisting of pain, bleeding and premenstrual tension. Compared to normal controls, the patients had a high serum estradiol and a low serum progesterone level. This abnormal luteal function may be responsible for the symptoms observed and may also explain the failure to conceive following successful reversal of tubal ligation. It is recommended that patients seeking sterilization reversal be screened for abnormal luteal function preoperatively. Selection of sterilization procedures that minimize alteration in luteal function should be given high priority.